Will wearing a mask transmit tuberculosis?

Whether tuberculosis (TB) can be transmitted while wearing a mask mainly depends on the mask's effectiveness and the way it is worn. Tuberculosis is a contagious disease spread through respiratory droplets. When a patient coughs, sneezes, or speaks, droplets containing Mycobacterium tuberculosis may be released into the air. Wearing a mask, especially a medical or surgical mask, can effectively block these droplets, thereby significantly reducing the risk of transmission. However, if the mask is of poor quality, improperly worn, or damaged, it may still allow the spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Therefore, TB patients should properly wear qualified medical masks in public places and minimize close contact with others to reduce the risk of transmission. At the same time, healthy individuals should also take personal protective measures when in contact with TB patients, such as wearing masks and maintaining social distance.